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The National Weather Service (NWS) in Birmingham confirmed this morning that its prediction for strong storms Saturday and into Sunday had not changed.

The Alabama is under a threat for significant severe weather today. Residents are urged stay weather aware and take today’s threat seriously. Keep in mind that the lull this morning is expected. A volatile atmosphere developing and will support a risk for violent, long-track tornadoes, large hail and damaging straight-line winds.
Not everyone will see the worst of what today will offer. The exact path of storms is uncertain until they develop or arrive in the area. So far, data indicates the whole region should prepare for intense severe storms.

The following sites have announced they will be open as storm shelters beginning early Saturday afternoon:

• The town of Hayneville is opening the doors of the town hall for a safer place at 1 p.m. Call Mayor Jimmie Davis with any questions at (334) 320-5514.
• The banquet hall in Fort Deposit will open as a safer place today. Enter through the side gate and bring any necessary items you will need. Contact Mayor Jacqulyn Davison-Boone for information.

The NWS issued these tips ahead of the storm:

• Use the quiet period this morning to ensure you know where you are on a map (do an Internet search for Alabama counties and save a map). You do not want to waste valuable time trying to figure out if you are in or out of a warning.
• Ensure you have multiple sources of weather information today: Reliable weather/news apps., weather radio, watching live coverage from broadcast meteorologists on whichever station you rely on, and similar. If your location goes under a tornado warning, quickly take shelter! If you know someone that has difficulties staying up to date or are unable to check frequently (maybe they’re at work or no Internet), text them to keep them informed.
• Where to shelter? Interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. That may be a closet, bathroom, pantry, hallway, office, or similar. Community storm shelters will also be open today. Check with your local county emergency management agency or city officials.
• Open floor plan? Look for something toward the middle like a half closet, half bath, or pantry. If you have a super open floor plan and everything is on an exterior wall, do your best to shelter at a location that puts the most walls between you and the outside as possible. That’d probably be a bathroom or closet.
  Multistory apartment/condo? If you are unable to shelter with someone on the first floor, move to an interior location within your unit, putting as many walls between you and the outside as possible. Mobile/manufactured home, RV, camper, tiny house? Seek an alternate location if you see storms are going to be in your area soon!
• Protect yourself with a bike helmet, sports helmet, heavy blanket, hard-soled shoes, etc. Bring a game or coloring book to distract and entertain kids.
• Keep your phone charged and keep it on you.
• Don’t forget your pets. Bring a leash with you.